If you’ve been paying attention to health and fitness news recently, you’ve probably heard about GLP-1 agonists—new medications that promise dramatic weight loss results. Popular names like Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) are increasingly being discussed, especially since the NHS approved them for certain patients struggling with obesity-related health conditions. But what exactly are these drugs, and why are they generating so much excitement?
What Exactly Are GLP-1 Agonists, and How Do They Help You Lose Weight?
GLP-1 agonists were originally created to help manage diabetes, but it soon became clear they had another powerful benefit: significant and sustained weight loss. These medications work by dramatically reducing appetite, stabilising blood sugar, and enhancing your body’s ability to burn fat. In practical terms, this means feeling fuller for longer, experiencing fewer cravings, and seeing meaningful weight loss results.
Wegovy vs. Mounjaro: What’s the Difference?
Both Wegovy and Mounjaro are weekly injections designed to help people lose weight, but there are important differences. Wegovy uses a single mechanism, targeting just the GLP-1 hormone. In contrast, Mounjaro targets two hormones—GLP-1 and GIP—making it slightly more potent. Clinical trials over 48 weeks showed impressive results:
- Wegovy: Average weight loss of approximately 17%
- Mounjaro: Average weight loss of approximately 23%
Although both drugs deliver impressive weight loss, Mounjaro typically leads to greater results but is slightly more expensive. Understanding these differences can help you decide which might better suit your goals and budget.
Unexpected Benefits Beyond Just Weight Loss
These medications might offer benefits that extend beyond just dropping pounds. Improved sleep quality, better heart health, and potentially even protection against cognitive decline have all been linked to significant weight loss achieved through these medications. However, most of these added benefits appear primarily due to weight reduction itself rather than additional effects of the drugs.
The Important Risks You Should Understand Before Starting
While GLP-1 agonists can be incredibly effective, they’re not without risks. Common side effects like nausea or digestive discomfort are usually temporary, but two bigger concerns deserve special attention:
1. Loss of Lean Muscle Mass
Research has found that up to half the weight you lose with GLP-1 medications could be muscle. This isn’t ideal for anyone, but it’s especially problematic for older adults. Losing just 6kg of lean muscle mass can be equivalent to ageing ten years in terms of muscle loss (known as sarcopenia). Reduced muscle mass also means a slower metabolism, making long-term weight maintenance even harder.
2. Rapid Weight Regain After Stopping
Another significant concern is that the majority of people regain nearly all their lost weight within two years of stopping these medications. This emphasises why relying solely on medication without lifestyle changes isn’t a sustainable long-term strategy.
How Fitagain Can Maximise Your Results and Minimise the Risks
At Fitagain, we understand the complexities of achieving sustainable weight loss, especially when using medications like GLP-1 agonists. Properly structured resistance training combined with tailored nutrition strategies can significantly enhance your results and protect against muscle loss.
By working closely with our clients, we:
- Develop personalised resistance training programmes to preserve and enhance lean muscle mass.
- Optimise nutritional intake, particularly protein, to ensure healthy muscle maintenance.
- Establish long-term nutritional and lifestyle strategies to help prevent weight regain even after medication stops.
We understand what it takes to use these powerful tools effectively, safely, and sustainably.
Want to Learn More? Join Our Free Live Webinar
We invite you to join our free webinar, where we’ll dive deeper into these remarkable medications, clearly explaining:
- Exactly how GLP-1 agonists work.
- Detailed strategies Fitagain uses to protect your health, manage side effects, and maximise your results.
- Real-world advice on maintaining your weight loss for years after treatment.
Understanding and combining these medications with expert fitness and nutrition support could be your key to lasting success. We look forward to seeing you there!
Spots are limited, and interest is already high, so secure your place today!
